On Wednesday, Oct 17th, Apple officially announced the iPhone and iPod Touch would be opened to third party developers. This was done with a Steve Jobs post on Apple’s Web Site.

It will take until February to release an SDK because we’re trying to do two diametrically opposed things at once—provide an advanced and open platform to developers while at the same time protect iPhone users from viruses, malware, privacy attacks, etc. This is no easy task. Some claim that viruses and malware are not a problem on mobile phones—this is simply not true. There have been serious viruses on other mobile phones already, including some that silently spread from phone to phone over the cell network. As our phones become more powerful, these malicious programs will become more dangerous. And since the iPhone is the most advanced phone ever, it will be a highly visible target.  Apple Start Page – 17 Oct.

Some are now asking what took Apple so long and why the further delay until February.  I believe it’s simply for the reasons stated above. In this age of acceptable hacking, it’s not an easy task to open up development of a device while protecting it’s security.  Case in point, note the efforts that have been applied to unlocking the iPhone.  I’m certain that once the SDK is released there will be the same level of effort to hack any restrictions it applies.

Instead of criticizing Apple for taking so long to open these devices, I appreciate them finally taking this step.

Technorati Tags: apple, iphone, ipod, sdk

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ChloeBooo
ChloeBooo
17 years ago

So, do you think that if I bought the iPod touch – right now – I would be able to update it in February when the SDK update comes out? Would I have to pay for it? Or, would it be a freebie download through iTunes?

Thanks,
ChloéBooo

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Earl
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Earl
17 years ago

ChloeBooo,
The SDK is a set of developmental tools that will allow 3rd party applications to be developed for the iPhone and iPod Touch. Any iPod Touch should be compatible with it when it’s released. The average user will not need the SDK but may use applications that were developed with it.
Hope this helps.

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